Afghanistan ranks 3rd globally for explosive ordnance casualties: UNAMA — Pajhwok

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan ranks third globally in terms of casualties caused by unexploded ordnance, with children accounting for around 80 per cent of the victims, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said on Sunday. UNAMA said large areas of Afghanistan remained contaminated with landmines and other explosive remnants of more than four decades of conflict, which continued to pose a serious threat to people across the country, particularly children. The UN mission is working to secure funding for mine-clearance organisations, which work daily to remove landmines and other explosive remnants of war while raising awareness among communities about the dangers they pose. According to UNAMA, children are the most vulnerable to these explosive hazards, accounting for around 80 per cent of all casualties. Many are killed or injured when they encounter unexploded ordnance while playing. UNAMA stressed that greater public awareness and collective efforts could prevent deadly incidents and save lives. The mission urged people not to touch unfamiliar or suspicious objects and to report them immediately to the relevant authorities. “If you encounter an unfamiliar or suspicious object, never touch it. Immediately inform the local authorities by calling 0708606060 or contact the Awaaz centre on 410,” it said.